The US Supreme Court on Monday dramatically expanded presidential authority, ruling that President Donald Trump can fire heads of independent federal agencies at will. However, the court blocked his attempt to oust Federal Reserve Governor Lisa Cook, preserving the central bank's independence.

In a 5-4 ruling, the court rejected Trump's 2025 firing of Cook, the first Black woman to serve as a Fed governor. Trump had cited unproven mortgage fraud allegations, which Cook denied, arguing they were a pretext for removal due to policy differences. Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that Fed governors "do not serve at the president's pleasure" and can only be removed "for cause."

In a separate 6-3 decision, the court upheld Trump's dismissal of Democratic Federal Trade Commission member Rebecca Slaughter, overturning the 1935 Humphrey's Executor precedent that had protected leaders of regulatory agencies from at-will removal. The court ruled that the president has broad power over executive branch officers.

Trump hailed the Slaughter ruling as a "BIG WIN," claiming it confirms presidential power under Article II. But he shifted tone on the Cook decision, calling it "strictly procedural" and vowing to take "appropriate action immediately" against what he alleged was wrongdoing.

The court also declined to hear Trump's appeal of a $5 million (€4.38 million) verdict in favor of E. Jean Carroll, who accused Trump of rape and defamation. Trump called the case "a Fake Case" and said he would continue fighting.

These rulings mark a significant shift in the balance of power, expanding presidential control over federal agencies while maintaining a check on interference with the independent Fed. Critics argue the decision undermines agency independence, while supporters see it as restoring constitutional authority.

Source: www.dw.com